Dependent (Spouse or Child) – In
Ireland

A dependent family member application lets a family member who is already in Ireland apply for permission based on their relationship with a sponsor who lives here legally, instead of applying from abroad. Typical applicants are a spouse who came to Ireland on another permission, such as a student permission, and a teenager or young adult who depends on a parent. Besides spouses and partners, ISD's in-country rules cover dependants aged 16 to 18, young adults under 23 in full-time education, and adults who depend on the sponsor because of a serious medical or psychological condition. Sponsors can be Irish citizens, spouses of Irish citizens, holders of Stamp 1, 4 or 5, researchers and eligible PhD students; Stamp 2 and Stamp 3 holders can't sponsor. The applicant must have entered Ireland legally, live with the sponsor as a family unit and not be subject to a deportation order. People who already hold a Stamp 1, 2, 3 or 4 permission renew online as a family dependant, with a €300 fee, while others use the Family Dependent Application Form through ISD's Customer Service Portal. Since 15 May 2024, eligible spouses and partners of General Employment Permit and ICT holders are registered on Stamp 1G, which lets them work. For someone with no permission, a refusal can lead to a notice of intention to deport.

Yes. Since 15 May 2024, eligible spouses and partners of GEP and ICT holders are registered on Stamp 1G and can work without a permit.

Children under 16 don't register. They register as a dependant when they turn 16.

If you hold a permission, you can request a review within 2 months of the decision.

Yes, with your written consent. We act for you once you've authorised us.

Young adults under 23 in full-time education, or adults with a serious medical or psychological condition that makes independent life impossible, can apply as dependants. We'll check the evidence needed.